ABB Ability Optimold Control steel casting control system

Designed to bring real-time, automatic online control of mould fluid flow, the ABB Ability Optimold Control connects sensors and actuators in the continuous casting process.

The system works in real time, using feedback from a high-resolution sensor system (such as ABB Optimold Monitor) to actively control electromagnetic devices such as stirrers or brakes that can influence fluid flow, correcting casting problems in the mould and ensuring that casting takes place under optimal conditions.

Combining with ABB’s existing product suite for steel manufacturers, ABB Ability Optimold Control adds optimal process control in the moulding process, resulting in higher product quality, improved productivity and enhanced efficiency in slab casting while helping avoid costly quality downgrades.

ABB has also developed a product version specifically for use with a new type of electromagnetic brake (EMBR) in the conventional or thin slab continuous steel casting process. Optimold Control for EMBR independently controls the EMBR’s flexible left and right sides and takes advantage of its flexible front core configuration, which enables it to work with any submerged entry nozzle (SEN) shape. The resulting real-time, online control optimises melt flow speed, symmetry and stability control.